Utah police gather to support Montana officer who was airlifted to University Hospital after getting shot

(Photo courtesy of the Montana Highway Patrol) Officer Wade Palmer of the Montana Highway Patrol was shot while investigating another shooting. He was airlifted to University Hospital on March 16, 2019.

Officers from various Utah police departments have gathered to show support for a Montana police officer who is fighting for his life in a Salt Lake City hospital.

According to FOX 13, Trooper Wade Palmer was shot on duty in Missoula by a man who was suspected to be involved with a different shooting. Montana Highway Patrol said Palmer had found a vehicle that matched the description of the one connected to a shooting the night before. Palmer was later found by fellow troopers shot in his own vehicle, still buckled in.

Medical personnel airlifted Palmer to University Hospital in Salt Lake City. Several different police organizations, including the Utah Highway Patrol and the Fraternal Order of Police, have stepped up to offer support.

UHP Sergeant Nick Street told FOX 13 they have put two UHP with Palmer’s wife and two young children.

“We’ve reached out to make sure they have rooms, and places to stay. Anytime they’re hungry, we can run off and get food,” Street said. “So they can focus on the one thing they want to focus on.”

South Salt Lake Police, who lost one of their own last year, have also volunteered officers to stay with both Palmer’s family and to stand watch at the hospital. Other agencies have also volunteered their time.

“The University of Utah Police up there were quick to come show support,” Street said, of other departments offering a helping hand. “West Valley, I believe, is standing guard at the operating room. Salt Lake City PD has shown support.”